French Butter Cookies

Delicate, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth tender, French Butter Cookies—also known as Sablés—are a timeless treat from the heart of France. With just a few simple ingredients, these cookies deliver rich flavor and a crumbly texture that pairs beautifully with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a gathering, or just because, these elegant cookies never go out of style.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple Yet Elegant – Made with pantry staples and no complicated steps.
Perfect Texture – Crisp edges with a soft, tender center.
Classic French Flavor – Rich, buttery, and just sweet enough.
Versatile – Decorate with sugar, dip in chocolate, or enjoy plain.
Great for Gifting – They store well and look beautiful in a box.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt
• Extra granulated sugar, for sprinkling (optional)
• 1 egg yolk + 1 tsp milk (for egg wash, optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter or fine mesh sieve
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie cutters (round or fluted for a traditional look)
• Cooling rack
• Pastry brush (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
2. Sift in the powdered sugar and mix until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, then beat until combined.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture.
3. Mix until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
4. Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape into disks.
5. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: Roll Out and Cut the Cookies

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Lightly flour your surface and roll out one disk of dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
3. Use cookie cutters to cut into rounds or fluted shapes.
4. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 4: Optional Egg Wash and Sugar Topping

1. For a golden finish, whisk 1 egg yolk with 1 tsp milk.
2. Lightly brush the tops of the cookies with the egg wash.
3. Sprinkle with a pinch of granulated sugar for sparkle and crunch, if desired.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

1. Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
2. Do not overbake—these cookies are meant to stay light in color.
3. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect French Butter Cookies
Use Good-Quality Butter – The flavor really shines, so use a high-quality unsalted butter.
Chill the Dough – This helps the cookies keep their shape and prevents spreading.
Avoid Overmixing – Mix just until the dough comes together for the most tender texture.
Don’t Overbake – Keep an eye on the color; you want pale cookies with golden edges.
Store Properly – Keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Serving Suggestions
Tea Time Treat – Perfect alongside Earl Grey or chamomile tea.
Gift Box – Wrap in parchment and place in a tin for an elegant edible gift.
Holiday Platter – Add these to your holiday cookie lineup for a touch of French flair.
Chocolate Dipped – Dip one half in melted chocolate and let set for a pretty variation.
Fruit Jam Sandwiches – Use two cookies with a touch of raspberry or apricot jam in between.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing:

• Freeze unbaked dough wrapped tightly for up to 2 months.
• Freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour. Texture may be slightly more crumbly.
2. Can I add flavor variations?
   Absolutely! Try lemon zest, almond extract, or a touch of cinnamon for a twist.
3. What’s the best way to prevent the dough from sticking when rolling?
   Lightly flour your surface and rolling pin. You can also roll between two sheets of parchment.
4. Why are they called ‘Sablés’?
   In French, sablé means “sandy,” referring to their delicate, crumbly texture.
5. Can I use cookie stamps or embossing tools?
   Yes! Just make sure the dough is well chilled and firm for clean impressions.

Final Thoughts
French Butter Cookies are a classic for a reason—simple ingredients, elegant appearance, and irresistible flavor. Whether you enjoy them with a hot drink, dress them up for the holidays, or serve them as a refined dessert, they’re a delightful way to experience a taste of France right in your kitchen. Try them today, and don’t forget to share your creations with us!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Cuisine: French

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie):
Calories: 120 | Protein: 1g | Carbohydrates: 12g | Fat: 7g | Fiber: 0g | Sodium: 45mg

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